How-to: Pros and Cons module
Quick Summary
- The goal of the Pros and Cons exercise is to weigh the pros and cons of a change you're considering but feel uncertain about.
- It's a powerful tool to increase motivation, build self-awareness, and address any mixed feelings you may have.
Here's what you can expect:
1. Identify the change: Consider what you want to change—maybe stop or cut down on something that’s causing problems, or start a new healthy behaviour.
2. Consider the benefits: These are the good things about change. Think about what you hope to gain from this change. List as many benefits as you can.
3. Acknowledge the challenges: These are the not so good things about change. Reflect on what could be challenging about this change and why you have mixed feelings.
4. Consider consequences of inaction: These are the not-so-good things about staying the same. Think about the negative effects of not making any changes.
5. Weigh the comfort of not changing: These are the good things about staying the same. Staying in your comfort zone has its perks. Identify where you might need new skills or support to stick with your change.
Once you have reflected on these areas, take a step back and see the big picture. It’s normal to feel uncertain about change, but acknowledging this can open the discussion about gaining new skills and supports and help the change stick.
Now you can give it a go yourself! You'll find this module on the All Tools page or go to the module directly here. Once you've finished it, you can print or save your results and discuss them with a support person.